The two founding members of the National Autistic Society West Wilts, Sue Saunderson and Alison Drake set up their group in 2006 with the financial support of the Community Foundation.  They are both parents of children with special needs. Alison has two sons, both diagnosed with Aspergers, Sue also has two sons, one with Aspergers and her youngest is severely autistic.  Between them they knew there was a need in West Wiltshire for a network of support and information for families with autistic children and with our support decided to take action.Initially, the membership consisted of Alison and Sue’s families and a small group of friends.   The group now supports over 40 families and 20 families attend almost every event.  They have database of 200 contacts that receive regular information and newsletters.  They offer a network of support for their families including meetings; forums, discussion and access to relevant local information.  Most importantly they meet as a group to provide social events for the children and their siblings.  Once a month they hold a one-hour Family Swim held alternately at Bradford and Trowbridge pools.  Other activities include 10 pin bowling, craft afternoons, day trips to a zoo and Paultons Park, evening meetings, coffee mornings, cinema trips, sports day/picnic, birthday party and a Christmas Party.  Most of these activities are subsidised by the group through their own fundraising. 

Many of these events would seem straightforward to most families however it is a very different matter for children with disabilities who often find it difficult to concentrate for any length of time.  Being able to go to the cinema not worrying about where your child is sitting or whether he is going to annoy other viewers is a real treat!   The support the parents receive is enhanced greatly by knowing their children are able to socially interact with others in a safe and welcoming environment. 

The management   committee  are all volunteers but first and foremost, parents of children with challenging needs.  They support families with a special needs child regardless of postcode or diagnosis.  They can only offer events based in the West Wilts area but anyone living in North Wilts, South Wilts or Kennet area is still welcome. They know that fighting for the rights of your child can be an incredible battle but they can support you, promote awareness and make the children’s future brighter!

The West Wiltshire branch is the only support group for those families with autistic children in the county.  The Salisbury Branch has been dormant since 2007.  West Wiltshire would be delighted to help other groups get started and would like to see at least three other groups set up to help meet the demand from those families who need support closer to their own homes.

The Community Foundation was delighted to help the National Autistic Society West Wilts Branch get started by funding their start up costs.  Without our support this group would not exist and the many families who benefit from their support would remain isolated.  The progress this group has made since their beginning is 2006 is tremendous and they have many more plans for the future.   We congratulate their success. 

If you would like further information about the National Autistic Society West Wiltshire Branch please visit their website www.naswilts.co.uk or contact Sue Saunderson on 01225 764439